Multiple choice question on finding magnetic field

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The correct answer to the multiple-choice question on finding the magnetic field around two long wires is E. The magnetic field around a long wire is calculated using the formula B = (μ * I) / (2 * π * r). The magnetic field vectors from two wires were analyzed, resulting in a net magnetic field calculated using the Pythagorean theorem. The derived expression for the net magnetic field at the origin is [5 * μ0 * I] / [24 * π], which does not match the official answer E, indicating a potential error in the calculation or interpretation of the problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of magnetic fields and the right-hand rule
  • Familiarity with the formula for magnetic fields around long wires
  • Basic knowledge of vector addition and the Pythagorean theorem
  • Concept of permeability of free space (μ0)
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of the magnetic field around long straight wires using Ampère's Law
  • Study vector addition techniques in physics, particularly in electromagnetism
  • Learn about the implications of the right-hand rule in determining magnetic field direction
  • Explore common mistakes in calculating magnetic fields in multi-wire systems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electromagnetism, physics educators, and anyone preparing for exams involving magnetic field calculations.

RoboNerd
Messages
410
Reaction score
11

Homework Statement


Screen Shot 2016-09-30 at 5.50.20 PM.jpg


E is the "right answer"

Homework Equations


B around a long wire = mu * I / [2 * pi * r]

The Attempt at a Solution

OK. I know that the magnetic field lines will travel in a clockwise direction around the wire from the viewer's orientation with the current going away from the viewer due to the right hand rule.

This means that the magnetic field created by the left wire will go into the negative y direction, and the magnetic field created by the right wire will go in the negative x direction.

Thus, I can get the magnitude of the net magnetic field at the origin by getting the two magnetic field vectors in the negative x and y directions and then applying pythagorean theorem.

Off I go. YAY!

B field in negative x direction caused by the left wire is going to be: mu0 * I / [2 * pi * 3]
B field in a negative y direction caused by the right wire is going to be: mu0 * I / [2 * pi * 4]

So magnitude of net magnetic field = sqrt ( B field in negative x direction^2 + B field in negative y direction^2 ) =
[5 * mu0 * I] / [ 24 * pi].

This is not what answer E, "the official right answer" is.

Could anyone please provide some input as to what went wrong?

Thanks in advance for the help!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Your answer looks correct to me. I'm not sure what the symbol ##f_0## means in the answers that were provided.
 
They mean Mu0 in that answer.

Thanks for helping!
 

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
16
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
5K
Replies
14
Views
3K
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K